8-1/4 Pinion shaft a little tight

Hey guys I am replacing my right rear backing plate. The axle is out but I had to tap the pinion shaft (shaft between the axles to keep them from moving in and to retain the c clips) out.

Because the shaft is on the tight side I am concerned that it will be a pita to rotate to line up with the pinion shaft retainer bolt upon reassembly.

Anyone have any tips on how to make this assembly easier? Tapping the pinion shaft in will make alignment really hard. I had thought this assembly would have a little more clearance.